MP calls for inquiry into sex abuse in Muslim families

A Dutch Labour MP has called for an inquiry into sexual abuse in Muslim families. The appeal by Khadija Arib comes after Radio Netherlands Worldwide published a report on the sexual abuse of four Muslim girls. The parliament has submitted written questions to Health Minister Edith Schippers about the issue.

Ms Arib believes any inquiry should include finding ways to break through the taboo surrounding sexual abuse in Muslim communities. In addition, she wants to encourage more victims to report abuse.

In the Radio Netherlands report, four women tell their stories about years of sexual abuse from a very young age by members of their own families. None of them have felt able to report the abuse to the police because of the damage it would do to the family honour, which would have huge consequences for the women.